All diamonds and jewelry are beautiful in their own right but some are so incredible they have made a lifetime impression. The following are a few of the most historic diamonds/jewelry pieces that have graced the hands and crowns of royalty around the world.

The Great Star of Africa

One of the most historic diamonds/jewelry pieces known is called The Great Star of Africa. This diamond originated from a 3,106 carat Cullian, cut down to an incredible 530.20 carat stone. This pear-shaped diamond is listed as the largest diamond in the entire world. Found in the Premier Mine, located in Transvaal, South Africa during an inspection in 1095, this particular diamond yielded nine gorgeous individual diamonds. Due to several factors, experts believe the crystal that would become The Great Star of Africa actually broke off from a much larger piece although the other half has never been confirmed or found.

The Orloff

Although not as massive as The Great Star of Africa, another one of the most historic diamonds is The Orloff. This diamond weighs 300 carats and one of the unique factors is the bluish/greenish color. Additionally, this diamond has amazing clarity and the final cut called a Mogul, makes this stone a real treasure. The Orloff was originally discovered in India but today, it resides in Moscow, Russia at the Diamond Treasury.

This historic diamond has a fascinating story. Some people believe the diamond was originally one of the eyes of the Hindu God idol, Vishnu. However, legends states that sometime during the 18th century, the diamond was stolen by a deserter from France. Afraid that horrific consequences would follow him, this deserter decided only to steal one eye. At some point, this French deserted moved to Madras at which time he sold The Orloff to a sea captain. Over the years, this diamond made its way to the hands of many famous people to include Napoleon.

The Centenary

Next on the list of the most historic diamonds and jewelry was also found in the Premier Mine as recent as 1986. This diamond known as The Centenary weighed a massive 599.10 carats before being cut down to 273.85 carats. Gabi Tolkowsky, one of the most famous master diamond cutters accepted the challenge to create the finished stone, which took him nearly three years to complete. This historic diamond/jewelry piece is virtually flawless and features an innovative cut that is simply stunning.

In all, the diamond has 247 facets, which are broken down to 164 on the stone itself and another 83 on the girdle. In addition to being near perfect, this diamond is ranked as the third largest known to man. In 1991, The Centenary was finally introduced at the Tower of London and today, it is considered one of the most beautiful and unique of all diamonds ever discovered.

The Regent

Paled in comparison to other stones, The Regent diamond is still among the most historic diamonds at 140.50 carats. The perfect cut and level of transparent clarity has given this diamond an impressive reputation. First discovered in India back in 1698, the stone was eventually purchased by the Governor of Madras, Thomas Pitt as an uncut stone.

Nineteen years later, the diamond was sent to England for cutting, after which time it became a part of the gilt crown worn by Louis XV and then passed down in 1775 to Louis XVI. The Regent diamond was given a new home on the sword of Napoleon 1st followed by the Emperor’s double bladed sword. The Regent went on to adorn other royalty but today, it can be seen in Paris at the Louvre.

Koh-i-Noor

Currently a part of the British Crown jewels, the Koh-i-Noor also deserves to be mentioned as one of the most historic diamond jewelry pieces. The name translates to “Mountain of Light”, which is a magnificent, oval cut stone weighing 105.60 carats. This particular diamond has a long history that began in the early part of the 14th century. However, during the 16th century, the Koh-i-Noor was taken captive by the Sultan Babur, staying in the Mogul Emperor’s possession for many years.

In fact, most diamond historians believe this diamond was used in the creation of the Peacock Throne but when the Persian Empire fell, the diamond made its way back to India, its place of discover. This historic diamond also became a pawn during the war between the British and the Sikhs with The East India Company laying claim to its ownership. The diamond weighed 1986 carats in 1850 when it was given to Queen Victoria, later being cut down to 108.93 carats. Although worn as a part of a royal brooch and then the State Crown, the Koh-i-Noor diamond now resides on permanent display in the Tower of London.